Today is the 11^th anniversary of when I got sick. When I ended up in and out of the ER with a myriad of strange symptoms, and started the long journey toward diagnosis, and finally the understanding that I’ll probably be sick like this for the rest of my life.

Today is the 11^th anniversary of continual physical suffering, of when I effectively lost my life, of being mostly housebound, of losing my ability to work, of losing the ability to travel, of losing my ability to go for a hike in the woods, and my ability to just be in the world.

Yet today I also celebrate myself, the things I’ve learned and the ways I have developed through all this suffering.

I celebrate my own courage and endurance for facing each day.

I celebrate how deeply my own suffering has helped increase my empathy and being able to truly feel others’ suffering.

I celebrate how I have learned to listen better.

I celebrate the deep spiritual connections I have developed that stay present in the worst of my suffering.

I celebrate how I have developed equanimity and acceptance. I still hope that one day in the future I will be better, but I have learned to accept that today I am sick.

I celebrate learning how to accept help, and learning that it is not shameful.

I celebrate developing greater understanding and wisdom.

I celebrate learning that I am more than just my actions.

I celebrate the things I am able to do.

I celebrate the love that is in my heart.

Today on this 11^th anniversary of life changing illness – I wish everyone I know, and everyone I don’t know a life filled with love, joy, and happiness.